Hillcrest police share festive safety tips
Police have advised residents to avoid posting about their travel plans on social media as it attracts criminals to their vacant homes.
WITH the festive season upon us, police have advised the community to be alert and advise close friends and family members if they are going away.
Hillcrest SAPS communications officer, Capt Linzi Smith said it is important for people close to you to check up on your home and clear your post box or newspapers left at the gate/entrance, and ensure your pets taken care of. She said homeowners should ensure that their alarm is in working order if they have one.
“If there is a house sitter, homeowners should make sure that their helpers know how to use/work the alarm system and activate outside beams if they have them,” explained Smith.
“Try not to let too many people be aware of your departure. By putting information on social media, this is a notice that your home is vacant and accessible,” warned Smith
“If you are able to, get a timer for outside lighting to turn on when it gets dark. Get your garden in order before leaving. An overgrown garden is a sign nobody is home,” she added. Smith also advised residents to be more vigilant and report any crime that occurs.
“The community needs to be aware that failure to report crime will result in us not knowing where we need to patrol.” She appealed to the community to work hand in hand with the police so that crime can be decreased.
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